What is Sensitivity?
Sensitivity describes how deeply we take in and respond to the world around us.
It is a basic human trait.
Everyone is sensitive to some extent, but some people are more sensitive than others. Research shows that highly sensitive individuals are more strongly influenced by what happens around them. This can mean greater vulnerability in stressful environments, and greater ability to thrive in supportive ones.
Around one in three people are more sensitive than average.
Understanding Sensitivity
Environmental Sensitivity is the scientific framework that explains why some people respond more strongly to their surroundings than others. It brings together decades of research on how the brain and body process information, emotions, and experiences.
Sensitivity is partly inherited and partly shaped by life experiences. It begins before birth and continues throughout development.
It is not a disorder.
It is a common and measurable trait.
While sensitivity can overlap with neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism or ADHD, it is distinct. A person can be sensitive and autistic, sensitive and have ADHD, or highly sensitive without either.
Sensitivity Across Development
Differences in sensitivity can be seen early in life. Sensitive children might:
react more strongly to new situations
become overwhelmed in busy environments
take longer to settle or adjust
With understanding and supportive environments, sensitive children flourish and show their strengths more clearly.
The Sensitivity Spectrum
Everyone sits somewhere on a sensitivity spectrum:
high sensitivity (around 30 percent of the population) often called Orchids
medium sensitivity (around 40 percent of the population) often called Tulips
low sensitivity (around 30 percent of the population) often called Dandelions
These are broad population patterns, not fixed categories. Everyone falls somewhere along the spectrum, and each level of sensitivity comes with its own strengths.
Strengths of High Sensitivity
Sensitive individuals often show:
empathy and emotional insight
creativity and deep thinking
strong attention to detail
rich appreciation of beauty and meaning
They thrive in environments that value care, nuance, and connection.
Challenges of High Sensitivity
In busy or stressful settings, sensitive individuals may:
become overstimulated or overwhelmed
feel stress more intensely
be more affected by conflict or unpredictability
be at greater risk for anxiety or low mood when facing difficult or unsupportive environments
These are natural responses, not weaknesses. With the right support, sensitive people can thrive and reach their true potential.
Measuring Sensitivity
Sensitivity can be explored through validated questionnaires for adults and children, or through professional assessments for those who want deeper guidance.